Our 5 Favorite Things About Gatlinburg White Water Rafting Trips

Since 1993, Smoky Mountain Outdoors has been thrilling visitors with amazing Gatlinburg white water rafting trips along the Pigeon River. While it is hard to narrow down what we love most about rafting in Tennessee, we have put together a list of five of our favorite reasons to take a wet and wild outdoor adventure in the Smokies.

1. Exceptional Beauty

The Pigeon River winds its way through the scenic Great Smoky Mountain area, and you can expect to enjoy nature at its very best. East Tennessee is teeming with fantastic wildlife, so you’ll have the chance to see fish in the river’s clear water, as well as herds of deer and even black bears having a drink as you float on by. Rafters will have remarkable views of the mountains and will pass by blooming wildflowers and beautiful trees.

2. Real Family Fun

We provide big and sturdy rafts that can accommodate a large family in a completely safe and comfortable manner. Depending upon the sort of rafting trip that you choose, you can bring children as young as age 3 along for the ride. More vigorous rafting trips require children to be at least age 8.

You can enjoy your Gatlinburg white water rafting trip knowing that we are looking out for your safety in every way. All of our guests are outfitted with a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and safety helmet, and a 20-minute safety talk is required before you embark on your trip. Additionally, a highly-trained and experienced guide who is also certified in first aid will ride along on each raft to ensure the safety of your group.

4. Variety of Rafting Trips

We offer an excellent selection of rafting trips to meet the particular needs of each family. Our Upper Pigeon River rafting trip is a 6.5-mile journey that provides a wild ride on class 3 and 4 rapids. Families with young children looking for a gentler ride will love our Lower Pigeon River rafting trip, offering 5.5 miles of mostly class 1 and 2 rapids. Guests can also choose a combo trip that allows you to experience both the upper and lower sections of the Pigeon River. Daredevils who are seeking the biggest thrills should inquire about our extreme rafting experience!

5. Extra Activities

Smoky Mountain Outdoors also offers kayaking trips down the river, which is a fun option if you want to be in a boat by yourself. You will have a guide nearby to escort you down the river while teaching you some fun moves, such as surfing, sliding, and spinning through the rapids.

Guests can also choose our hike and paddle package. This special combo trip begins with our guides taking you on some of the best mountain trails available, with options ranging from easy for those with small children, to difficult for more experienced hikers. You can expect to find some great swimming holes, fast-moving mountain creeks, and amazing forests. Lunch will be provided following the hike, and then you can embark on your rafting adventure!

Don’t miss out on these excellent Gatlinburg white water rafting trips during your Tennessee vacation. Make your reservations with us at Smoky Mountain Outdoors today, and we will soon have you enjoying an amazing journey on the beautiful Pigeon River.